"If I were to give advice to others considering performing arts, I’d say be yourself, don’t worry about what others think. Being different makes you unique. Work hard and take every opportunity that comes your way and don’t stress out – enjoy your time learning and believe in yourself."

"The course has given me a new life and made me believe that I can do what I want to do. Now the course is coming to an end, I can honestly look back and say that I’m pleased I took the step to further my education."

"The College is great: all the teachers and staff give you the space to figure things out on your own, but they are also there if you’re ever in trouble. It’s a really nice environment to work and study in – a mixture of independence and reliance."

"Everyone is really lovely and really encouraging. I’ve got good teachers – they’re nice people and they don’t talk down to students."

"Lewisham Southwark College prepared me well for university in many ways. It gave me confidence in vital skills like writing, which are really important on a degree course, and sparked my creativity."

"We had a great bond as a class, and our course tutor was always willing to go the extra mile to support learners. I feel that I have really grown both personally and professionally."

"The teachers and staff were always warm, welcoming and inspirational. I received a lot of technical support and benefited from great resources, and I gained skills in IT, numeracy and communications. The College’s encouragement led me to get the highest grade in my Level 1 course, which is something I never thought I could achieve."

"It was not easy to get a job in the engineering industry, so I continued with some short courses and agency work to get more experience. This really helped me to stand out in interviews and enabled me to secure a permanent role."

"I’ve learnt assertiveness, the importance of maintaining data accurately, and also how to deal sensitively with customers’ specific needs. In certain cases – for example when discussing a resident’s Food Bank eligibility – you need to be particularly considerate and careful about confidentiality to avoid possible embarrassment to the resident."

"My time at Lewisham College was very important. It gave me the set of skills I needed to develop into the chef I am today. I’d like to say a big thanks to all of my college lecturers."

"Passion, discipline and dedication are the watchwords of being successful – not only in this industry but also in being a better human."

"When I first started the course I was a little unsure if it was right for me, or if I would get through it, but my tutor was absolutely amazing and gave me a lot of support."

"I’ve really enjoyed my apprenticeship, especially my sessions with my assessor who has given me great encouragement."

"Software Engineering is a challenging degree course but if you have the right foundation of knowledge and a passion for the subject, it’s a great choice as it focuses on the technology of the future."

"I really enjoy being able to work within a team during busy service as well as learning new practical skills. It’s also great to meet with my assessor and track my progress with her. It means that I always know where I’m at in regards to my apprenticeship."